Kinematic and kinetic features of normal level walking in athletes with tightness of gastrocnemius-soleus complex: more than a sagittal plane alteration

A shortened Gastrocnemius soleus underlies many biomechanical interactions which is a contributing factor to the development of movement impairment syndromes. So, the present study was done to assess the impact of shortened gastrocnemius soleus muscle on kinetic and kinematic variables in athletes to identify the compensatory movement patterns done in system. Knee and ankle torque, range of motion and ground reaction forces recorded by gait analysis system. Independent T test was used to compare parameters between two groups.
This descriptive analytical study was carried out on 10 athletes which suffered from gastrocnemius soleus muscle shortness and ten healthy male athletes.
Shortness group displayed an increased knee flexion in swing phase, increased maximum adduction and extension of knee in stance phase, and increased maximum eversion in loading response of gait cycle. Athletes with limited dorsiflexion also displayed a reduced dorsiflexion range of motion, knee flexion angle in stance phase. Also, whole eversion time of ankle in loading response, knee flexion angle of heel contact were reduced in athletes with ankle dorsiflexion limitation. Finally, the mean external rotation and extensor torque of knee in stance phase and maximum torque of plantar flexion in loading response were increased in athletes with gastrocnemius soleus shortness group.
Restricted DF ROM may alter movement mechanics in a manner that predisposes athletes to muscle skeletal injury. Therefore, the attention focused on the rehabilitation of gastrocnemius-soleus complex with an emphasis on motor control is important.